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Fir Tussock Moth Orgyia detrita Guérin-Méneville, 1831 (Lepidoptera: Erebidae: Lymantriinae)

Donald W. Hall and Lyle Buss


Release Date: 12/3/2020

Reviewed At: 9/28/2023

DOI: 10.32473/edis-in1032-2014

Agriculture

Abstract

This document provides an in-depth profile of the fir tussock moth (Orgyia detrita), focusing on its distribution, description, life cycle, and medical importance. It details the moth’s larvae, cocoons, pupae, and adult forms, highlighting their unique characteristics and behaviors. The article also discusses the moth’s natural enemies, including predators, pathogens, and parasitoids, and offers control measures for managing infestations. Additionally, it addresses the medical significance of the moth’s urticating hairs, which can cause dermatitis in humans. The document is intended for both laypersons and academic audiences interested in entomology.

About this Publication

This document is EENY588, one of a series of the Entomology and Nematology Department, UF/IFAS Extension. Original publication date February 2014. Revised March 2020 and September 2023. Visit the EDIS website at https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu for the currently supported version of this publication. This document is also available on the Featured Creatures website at https://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/.

About the Authors

Donald W. Hall, professor; and Lyle Buss, senior biological scientist and Insect ID Lab manager; Entomology and Nematology Department, UF/IFAS Extension, Gainesville, FL 32611.

How to Cite

Hall, D. W., & Buss, L. (2014). Fir Tussock Moth Orgyia detrita Guérin-Méneville, 1831 (Lepidoptera: Erebidae: Lymantriinae). EDIS, 2014(2). https://doi.org/10.32473/edis-in1032-2014

Authors

Donald Hall
Donald Hall
Specialist
University of Florida

professor emeritus, Department of Entomology and Nematology

Lyle Buss
Lyle Buss
staff
University of Florida

senior biological scientist & Insect ID Lab manager, UF/IFAS Entomology and Nematology Department, Gainesville, FL

Publication #EENY588